Regions

Fishing on Long Island: Where to Drop a Line with Kids

Piers, Docks, and Harbors Where Kids Can Go Fishing in Long Island, New York

Ready to teach your little one how to cast a line? Fishing is a fun outdoor family activity with deep roots in Long Island's maritime history and culture.

Surrounded by the sea, kids on Long Island can drop a line in a number of waterfront communities, beaches, local piers, boats, and parks. We've rounded up a few of our favorite family-friendly fishing venues where you can test your skills and perhaps hook the catch of the day.

Don't forget to follow local regulations and to scoop up a free fishing permit from the state. A permit is not required for those younger than 16. There are unique permits for freshwater and saltwater fishing, however

Nassau

Hempstead Lake State Park — West Hempstead
Fish from either South or McDonald ponds, where trout are stocked regularly in the fall. Bass, perch, carp, and sunfish are also regularly found here in season. The New York State Parks Department hosts some family fishing clinics throughout the year here. There are also tennis courts, children's playgrounds, basketball courts, bridle trails for horseback riding, biking and hiking trails, shaded picnic areas and a historic hand-carved wooden carousel. Without an Empire Pass, daily parking fees apply.

Jones Beach Fishing Pier, Field 10 — Wantagh
Head to Field 10 of Jones Beach and pick a pier. Four "finger" piers jut out in peninsula formation, so there's no overcrowding. A few feet away, The Fishing Station has all your bait and tackle needs, plus drinks, coffee, burgers and sandwiches. Bathrooms are also located here. Before you go, head to the beach for some sandy fun or experience hands-on learning at the Jones Beach Nature Center, or cool off at the new splash pad. Without the Empire Pass, daily parking fees apply.

Magnolia Pier — Long Beach
Long Beach isn't only a beach hot spot. Its local fishing pier, known as Magnolia Pier after its address, is open year-round and is super popular. There's free parking, restrooms during weekday business hours, and even a snack bar at the ice arena. But moreover, fishermen and fisherwomen know they're likely to score a good catch here. In late fall and winter, herring is the catch of choice.

Town Dock and Walkway — Port Washington
Watch the boats sail in and out of Manhasset Bay while you attempt to hook a fish here. In the summer months, snappers (juvenile bluefish) abound. Combine fishing with a trip to the local farmers' market on summer weekends. It's also a great waterfront for strolling, sunset seeking, or just general people watching.

Wantagh Park — Wantagh
This 100-plus-acre park is home to one of our favorite seasonal swimming pools and mini water parks, It's also a great fishing pier. Found just beyond the marina, it's open year-round. There is some limited seating, tables along the pier, and lovely views. The waterfront path was recently repaved and is ideal for bike riding. Enjoy a round of mini-golf on your way out.

When you're done fishing, try pedaling around Belmont Lake State Park. Photo courtesy of the park

Suffolk

Belmont Lake State Park — North Babylon
The 26-acre, spring-fed Belmont Lake provides springtime trout fishing and summer bass fishing. Waterfowl can be found roaming the grounds, and watch out above for osprey diving for a fresh catch of the day. Belmont Lake also offers pedal boat, rowboat and kayak rentals from the boat dock from May through early October. Afterward, picnic, or play on the climbing structures, fields, courts, and more.

From pier or boat, Captree State Park is a great option for fishermen of all ages. Photo by Jen Tomeo

Captree State Park — Babylon
Stay on land to fish off the two large piers or even catch crabs at this gorgeous state park. It's also a good spot to catch one of the many boats for a day of saltwater fishing, sailing, or sightseeing. Head to theOverlook section for sweeping views of Fire Island and great picnicking. There are even paddleboards available.

Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery and Aquarium — Cold Spring
Tour the aquariums, ponds, and other exhibits at this Cold Spring Harbor nonprofit before checking out its catch-and-keep fishing program. Cast your line from its fishing platform to snare a trout during select times in the summer. You'll pay per fish and must keep your fish (no tossing it back). But it gives kids a chance to learn how to thread a bait, throw and reel a line—and to see if they have the stomach for gutting that fish later. See complete hours and fees online. Bring your own rod or rent there for a nominal fee. Don't miss the turtle pond either.

Harborfront Park — Port Jefferson
The 350-foot fishing pier on Port Jefferson's waterfront offers expansive North Shore views and plenty of fishing opportunities. You can also catch a fishing boat from here, including the Osprey fleet, which operates a "kids fishing tour" for ages 7 and older. Afterward, stroll the village for family-friendly eats, sights and activities.

The East End

Molnar's Landing Marina — Hampton Bays
This popular spot hosts a special children's fishing boat trip and other kid-friendly fishing experiences in a low-key setting. Fluke are the popular catch here, but also sea bass and striper fish, depending on the season.

Montauk Point State Park — Montauk
Fishing is available year-round off the beaches of gorgeous Montauk Point State Park, where you'll be treated to grand views of the south shore of Long Island, nature trails, and maybe even a seal sighting. Cast your line right from the beach, aka surf fishing, to try for a striped bass or other local favorite. You'll likely find porgy and cod, too. Apply for an after-hours parking permit to enjoy summertime fishing when the beaches clear of sunbathers. Don't miss the lighthouse while you're out here.